Side Effects of Loestrin 24 Fe

Loestrin 24 Fe is a low-dose birth control pill that is designed to give the user lighter and shorter periods, as well as prevent pregnancy. Loestrin is taken each day, with 24 active hormone pills in each pack. When taken properly, the drug claims to be 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy, but it can have a few side effects.

Headache

• Many women who start taking Loestrin 24 Fe report having a headache during the first few weeks taking the drug. In most cases, the headache disappears once a woman's body gets used to the additional hormones.

Yeast Infection

• Many women report getting a yeast infection when they begin taking Loestrin 24 Fe. In most cases, the yeast infection is a one-time event and a reaction to the body getting used to added hormones.

Breakthrough Bleeding

• As many birth control pills, women can experience breakthrough bleeding when they first start taking Loestrin 24 Fe. Breakthrough bleeding is light bleeding that can occur at a different time than a woman's typical menstrual cycle and can last several days.

Weight Gain

• While most women do not experience weight gain using Loestrin 24 Fe, a few have reported an increased appetite and some weight gain when they begin using the drug.

Blood Clots

• As many other birth-control pills, Loestrin 24 Fe can cause blood clots, which also can cause strokes or heart attacks. Women who smoke are at a considerably higher risk for life-threatening reactions to Loestrin 24 Fe.

Birth Defects

• Loestrin 24 Fe can cause birth defects for pregnant women. If you are pregnant or suspect that you might be pregnant, you should stop taking Loestrin 24 Fe.